This Cranberry Whiskey Sour is a tasty twist on the classic drink! It’s made with smooth whiskey, zesty lemon juice, and a splash of sweet cranberry. Perfect for any gathering!
Every sip feels like a fun celebration, and the bright color is so inviting. I love to serve it over ice with a slice of lemon—it just brightens up the whole mood! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whiskey: Bourbon provides a sweet, full flavor while rye adds a spicy kick. If you want a lighter option, try a blended whiskey or even a whiskey-based liqueur. Some folks prefer different spirits, like rum or vodka, which can work too!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best for vibrant flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice works, but it’s often more acidic. You could also substitute lime juice for a twist, though it’ll change the drink’s profile a bit.
Cranberry Juice: Unsweetened cranberry juice keeps the drink tart, while sweetened juice can add more sweetness. If you want less sugar, try mixing unsweetened cranberry with a splash of apple juice or pomegranate juice for a milder taste.
Simple Syrup: You can easily make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar and water. For a lower-calorie option, consider using agave syrup, honey, or even a sugar substitute. Adjust the amount to taste based on sweetness.
Egg White: This adds a nice frothy texture. If you prefer to skip it, that’s totally fine too! Just give the drink an extra shake to mix well and keep it refreshing.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Foam with Egg White?
If you want a beautifully frothy drink, using egg white is a great technique! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a “dry shake.” That means shaking your ingredients without ice first. This helps emulsify the egg white and creates better froth.
- After shaking for about 15 seconds, add ice to your shaker. This cools the drink while further mixing the ingredients.
- Shake again vigorously for about 15 seconds. The longer you shake, the more froth you’ll get!
Strain into your glass carefully to keep all that lovely foam on top. A little practice, and you’ll be a pro at making those frothy cocktails!
Cranberry Whiskey Sour
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For The Cocktail:
- 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye)
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust based on cranberry juice sweetness)
- 1 egg white (optional, for frothiness)
- Ice cubes
- For Garnish:
- Fresh cranberries
- Fresh rosemary sprig
- Lemon slice (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This drink takes about 10 minutes to prepare! You’ll spend a few minutes gathering your ingredients, shaking them up, and then garnishing your drink. Perfect for a quick cocktail to impress your friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Cocktail Shaker:
Start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. Add enough ice so that it’s about halfway full. This will help cool down and mix your drink nicely.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Pour in 2 oz of whiskey, 1 oz of fresh lemon juice, 3/4 oz of cranberry juice, and 1/2 oz of simple syrup into the shaker. If you’re using the egg white for that lovely froth, add it now too!
3. Shake it Up:
Shake your cocktail vigorously for about 15 seconds. If you’re including the egg white, do a “dry shake” first (shake without ice) to mix it well, then add the ice and shake again for another 15 seconds. Get ready for some serious froth!
4. Strain and Serve:
Grab a rocks glass and fill it with fresh ice. Strain the cocktail mixture over the ice into the glass. This will ensure you have a smooth drink with no ice chunks in it!
5. Garnish with Flair:
To make it look extra fancy, garnish the drink with a skewer of fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. If you’d like, add a lemon slice on the side for a little extra zing!
6. Enjoy!
Your Cranberry Whiskey Sour is ready to sip and enjoy. Cheers to a deliciously refreshing cocktail that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Bottled Juice Instead of Fresh Juice?
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh juice offers a brighter and more vibrant flavor. If using bottled, be sure to taste your drink and adjust the sweetness accordingly, as bottled juices can vary in acidity.
What If I Don’t Want to Use Egg White?
No problem! You can skip the egg white and still enjoy a delicious cocktail. Just give the drink a good shake with ice to mix it well. It won’t have the frothy texture, but it will still be refreshing and delightful!
How Should I Store Leftover Cranberry Whiskey Sour?
It’s best to make this drink fresh, but if you have leftover mixture (without ice), you can refrigerate it in an airtight container for a day. Just shake it well again before serving. However, it’s best enjoyed right after making it!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of simple syrup based on your taste and the sweetness of the cranberry juice you’re using. Start with a smaller amount and taste before adding more to find your perfect balance.